President Office — Press Release

Florida Senate President Joe Negron (R-Stuart) and Senator Bill Galvano (R-Bradenton) today released the following statements regarding the Florida Supreme Court decision in Gretna Racing, LLC vs. Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation, in which the Court upheld the authority of the Legislature to determine the future of gaming in Florida.

“Today the Supreme Court unanimously confirmed that the responsibility to determine the future of gaming in Florida lies with the elected members of the Legislature,” said President Negron. “With current law upheld, the Legislature now has every opportunity to shape gaming policy for our state in a manner that respects both the authority of local referendums and the ongoing relationship with the Seminole Tribe, without the underlying concern that a court ruling could suddenly upend productive negotiations.”

“In confirming the constitutional authority of the Legislature to set gaming policy, the Supreme Court ruled that current law clearly states the conditions for issuing a slot machine license, and Gretna did not meet those requirements,” said Senator Galvano. “This confirmation of legislative authority removes a significant obstacle in our negotiations with the Seminole Tribe, providing clarity that as we move forward the Legislature, rather than the Courts, will determine what expansion looks like and where it takes place. We look forward to continuing this important discussion with Governor Scott, our colleagues in the Florida House, the Seminole Tribe, industry stakeholders and constituents across the state as we head towards the 2018 Regular Session.”